Thanks for checking this out! If you missed out on this class, fret not! Email me at divya.does.taxidermy at gmail dot com, or check http://www.facebook.com/DivyaTaxidermy for updates on coming events!! Class schedules and mailing list access are also on my website www.d-i-v-y-a.com

Event

Two headed/Anthropomorphic Mouse Taxidermy Class

Anthropomorphic taxidermy--a practice in which animals are posed as if engaged in human activities--was an artform made famous by Victorian taxidermist and museologist Walter Potter. In this class, as profiled by the New York Times, students will learn to create--from start to finish--anthropomorphic mice inspired by the charming and imaginative work of Mr. Potter. Your final project might take the form of a bespectacled, whiskey swilling, top hat tipping mouse; or perhaps a rodent mermaid queen of the burlesque world? With some props and some artful styling, your mouse can become whatever or whomever you want; this is the joy of anthropomorphic taxidermy.

This class will teach students everything involved in producing a fully finished mount, including initial preparation, hygiene and sanitary measures, fleshing, tail stripping, and dry preservation. We will also cover the tips and techniques that make a two headed gaff truly seamless. Once properly preserved, the mice will be posed and outfitted as the student desires, with a selection of props and accessories provided by the instructor. Students are also encouraged to bring their own accessories and bases if something specific is desired. All other supplies will be provided for use in class.

Each student will leave class with a fully finished piece, and the knowledge to create their own pieces in the future.Divya Anantharaman is a Morbid Anatomy Museum Taxidermist in Residence and a Brooklyn based artist whose taxidermy practice was sparked by a lifelong fascination with the intersection of natural mythology and science. After a journey through self and professional training, she has found her calling in creating sickly sweet and sparkly critters. A trophy winner in the 2013 Philadelphia Alt Taxidermy competition, she has been profiled in numerous publications as varied as Vice/Fringes, The NY Times, The Cut, and on hit Discovery/Science Channel TV show Oddities. She is also a member of the M.A.R.T. (Minnesota Association of Rogue Taxidermists) You can find out more at www.d-i-v-y-a.com

Some technical notes:

We use NO harsh or dangerous chemicals.

Everyone will be provided with gloves and sanitary equipment.

All animals are disease free.

Although there will not be a lot of blood or gore, a somewhat strong constitution and maturity are necessary. We will be seeing meat. In this manner, a good taxidermist prides themselves on working cleanly!

In consideration of other students, please do not dissect carcasses in class. (You are welcome to take the carcass and dissect on your own, instruction can be provided)

All animals are ethically sourced- nothing was killed for this class. Animals used in this class are discards from the feeder/pet food industry, naturally deceased, or discards from the food service industry.